The Tenderloin (aka The 'Loin or T.L) is a relatively small neighborhood located in downtown San Francisco, CA. Its borders are roughly the triangle made by Geary Blvd, Market St and Van Ness Ave. Some consider the Civic Center and Union Square to be a part of the Tenderloin.

Although the origin of its name is up for debate, no one denies this neighborhood is one of the most dangerous in the City, mainly known for problems like excessive drugs, prostitution, and a high number of homeless people. It's also one of the most dirty and grimy areas of San Francisco. It's highly recommended that visitors to this area exercise their street smarts and stay aware of their surroundings. If you look like a victim in the 'Loin, you'll probably be one. It's no wonder why there's a special police unit just for the Tenderloin.

The Tenderloin has some good things going for it too, however. It's home to some of the best ethnic restaurants in San Francisco, theaters, and hotels. It's also one of the most affordable areas of San Francisco.

Girl: The Tenderloin scares me!
Boy: Just be smart. Don't hang around at night and be aware.

aka, the TL. ass smellin area in downtown san francisco where all the creeps, skizzers, hoes, crack heads, transients and just plain fucked up people congregate, starting at geary , it gets seedier the closer you go south towards market and van ness

yo bitch i aint walkin through the TL, dam trannys and crack heads all wanna piece of ya.